Ghana Immigration Arrests 93 Foreigners, Rescues 73 Abuse Victims in DEVTRACO Estate Raid
Ghana Immigration Service dismantles internet fraud and human trafficking network at DEVTRACO Estate, rescuing 73 victims.
- 93 Nigerian nationals arrested for alleged internet fraud and immigration violations.
- 73 victims rescued after enduring torture and abuse; repatriated to Nigeria.
- Significant haul of laptops, phones, TVs, counterfeit currency, and fake gold bars seized.
The Ghana Immigration Service has arrested 93 Nigerian nationals and rescued 73 victims of torture and abuse during a major intelligence-led operation targeting a residential estate in Accra.
The raid, conducted on March 9, 2026, focused on six houses within the DEVTRACO Estate, uncovering a sophisticated internet fraud network that had allegedly been holding victims against their will. Of those arrested, 91 were male and 2 were female, all facing charges related to internet fraud and immigration violations.
Deputy Superintendent of Immigration (DSI) Newman Akuffo led the operation, which resulted in the seizure of 82 laptops, 57 mobile phones, 17 television sets, counterfeit US dollars, and fake gold bars—equipment believed to have been used in running the fraud scheme.
The 73 rescued victims, who suffered severe torture and abuse, have been repatriated to Nigeria. Investigations revealed that some suspects had entered Ghana through unapproved border routes, while others had overstayed the 90-day visa-free entry period. The GIS confirmed that further investigations are ongoing at its National Headquarters in Accra.
The Comptroller General of Immigration issued a stern warning to foreign nationals, highlighting that under the Human Trafficking Act, 2005, recruiting, transporting, or harbouring individuals through force, fraud, or abuse carries penalties of 5 to 20 years imprisonment, and life sentences for cases involving children or aggravating factors. Violations under the Immigration Act, 2000, including entering Ghana via unapproved routes or overstaying visas, also carry fines and imprisonment ranging from 3 months to 2 years.
The operation is considered one of the most significant anti-fraud and human trafficking busts in recent memory and underscores Ghanaian authorities’ growing efforts to dismantle cyber fraud networks operating from residential communities.
